Listen, I know there are probably a bazillion things you get in the mail, on a monthly, quarterly, or even seasonally basis. Heck, I’m sure you’ve probably given one or 50 subscription boxes a try at this point.
I want to share with you the reasons I like them. Also what I do with things that maybe don’t resonate so much with me personally.
So come along for the ride, won’t you?! (Insert Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood theme song, right here…Mama’s you know what I’m talking about)
Subscription Boxes – Are they worth it?
What Are Subscription Boxes
Simply put, subscription boxes are kind-of like monthly magazine subscriptions. But instead of receiving a certain magazine each month, you receive products from brands. It’s a similar business model, but better.
Nowadays, you can find subscription boxes in all shapes and sizes, and in all price ranges. And, there’s one out there for everyone in the family. Subscription boxes can include all types of things. Just to name a few, there are boxes filled with cosmetics, clothes, kid’s games and puzzles, men’s shaving and self-care products, meal kits, pet food and treats, and so on.
Whenever I see something fellow influencers are promoting, I do a little research before diving in and promoting.
Unless, I’ve already been using it and know it works well.
In this case, before I was creating content and recommending things, I was new to treating myself to different things. A creature of habit, I had my tried and true go tos. New skin or hair care products? Forget it. New stores? Not a chance.
I was a very simple person who didn’t venture outside her small box.
Maybe it was due to my childhood and how my body shape and size affected how I saw myself.
But those are both different stories.
Are Subscription Boxes Worth It?
I’m not sure how, but one day, I stumbled upon the FabFitFun box and decided to give it a try. I ordered the seasonal option that was set for winter shipping. It just so happened I received the box right around Christmas. Inside were things I knew I could gift a cousin and sister in law I didn’t really know what to give either.
At the same time, I was getting the Yogi Surprise Box, which was a monthly subscription. Neither one of those people were into yoga, so that box was mostly for me.
Recently, I’ve signed up for the Fabletics membership, which isn’t the same, but it’s a monthly subscription that you get to pick out your outfit for, which works because I don’t need to leave home to get fresh workout clothes.
I’m certain you’ve seen all the subscription services pop up.
Pros And Cons Of Subscription Boxes
Pros
It’s like a surprise each month.
How fun is it to receive a little gift in the mail each month? Honestly, its a great form of self-care!
Allows you to try new and exciting products.
It can be hard to step outside your comfort zone and try new products. But, with monthly shipments of new products, it’s easy to try new things, and maybe even find new favorites.
Gives you something to look forward to.
Even though self-care is SO IMPORTANT, it can be hard to set aside the time. Opening and enjoying the contents of your subscription boxes is like built-in self-care time that you can look forward to.
The products you don’t use make perfect gifts for holidays and birthdays.
You might not always love every single thing you receive in your subscription box. In those cases, you can use the extra products as gifts for those that have similar taste.
Reduces the urge to shop in-between shipments, thus reducing your carbon footprint.
In this consumer based society, it’s tempting to go shopping all the time to keep up with new trends. But, with your subscription box full of trendy new items to look forward to, there is less of an urge to shop in the in-between time. This will not only save you money, but reduce your overall carbon footprint as well.
Cons
Some subscription boxes can get a little pricey.
There are tons of monthly subscription boxes to choose from. If you want to receive really quality items each month, you can expect to pay a pretty penny.
If you don’t love the items you receive, the clutter can pile up quickly.
Receiving new items each month is great…until the clutter starts piling up. Ensure you’ve got the space for all your new items before you start a subscription box.
Some subscription boxes require full up-front payment, with fees for cancellation.
Some subscription boxes businesses allow you to pay month by month, whereas others require up-front payment for longer periods – up to a whole year and beyond. Pay attention to these details when signing up for your subscription service.
Some subscription services make it hard to cancel, so be sure to read the terms and agreements.
Some brands in the subscription box industry have great customer service. Some…not so much. Do a little investigating about customer service and cancellation procedures before committing to a subscription box service.
My favorite part of the boxes is they come as a surprise, kinda like the surprise toys that are all the rage with the kids these days.
How Do Subscription Boxes Work
Most boxes come with full sized products for you to try for a fraction of the membership cost. And probably almost every product in the box individually. I’m sure it’s because the founders have curated great relationships with these companies. With this, many people will see and try their item and it’s well worth it for them to put it in the box. For me, I get to try all of these new products, small businesses, and companies without searching for these products individually.
They come right to me, all at once. In the box comes information about the product and usually a discount code for future use.
If I find I have too many of something, or a product doesn’t resonate with me, I’ve always got a gift or giveaway item on standby. The products never go to waste and someone else is exposed to the product who might become a lifelong lover of the product/company.
I don’t know about you, but as a Mother of two girls, this is top of mind when in public. Unfortunately there are people out there who will do anything to make a dollar and rip them away from us.
So finding organizations like this, and knowing my purchase at any time going forward from ParkerClay will make a difference in the world for all females, young and old, helps me remember good still exists.
If it means I discover them when I normally wouldn’t have known they existed, I’m all for it. The quality of products every month are impeccable, not something that was left over and thrown into a box. They are quality that could be sold at a store for a much higher rate.
So, are subscription boxes worth it? It depends on your preferences!
Best Subscription Boxes
Stitch Fix
If you’re into fashion, Stitch Fix is a great way to get carefully curated, high-quality clothing delivered to your door each month. There’s no styling fee, and you can return whatever you don’t want.
Dollar Shave Club
Dollar Shave Club is perfect for the guy who wants to save money on high-quality razors. For just $5 a month, you can get razors sent directly to your door. Plus, there’s no need to worry about running out of blades – they’ll automatically send you a new shipment when you’re running low.
Home Chef
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to get delicious, home-cooked meals without having to grocery shop, Home Chef is a great option. You can choose from a variety of meal plans, and they always send high-quality ingredients that are hand-picked by their culinary team.
Birchbox or Ipsy
Beauty lovers will love getting monthly boxes of beauty products from companies like Birchbox or Ipsy. These beauty boxes often include sample sizes of different products, so you can try out new things without committing to a full-sized product. Plus, you’ll usually get a coupon to use on a future purchase.
Are Subscription Boxes Worth It?
There are also subscription boxes for kids, pets, and just about anything else you can think of. So if you’re looking for a fun way to try new things or just want to make your life a little easier, subscribing to a box might be the way to go! Join the month club!
So, for these reasons above, I love subscription boxes and will continue to get them. I would encourage you to research one you think could interest you, and check it out for yourself. There is a huge subscription box market. Most boxes allow you to cancel at any time when you decide. I need mention most are customizable to your liking, without removing the element of surprise.
Tell me, do you use subscription boxes, or will you consider using them now?
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